By John Emeripus
Egerton University’s Agro-Science Park was a vibrant hub of learning and innovation when it hosted a Farmer Field Day focused on empowering farmers through climate-smart agriculture (CSA).
The event brought together a huge particition of smallholder farmers, extension officers, and agricultural stakeholders, all united by a shared goal to explore practical solutions for farming in a changing climate.
The objective was to promote CSA practices that not only increase productivity but also build resilience and protect the environment. These practices, participants learned, werevkey to food security systems in the face of unpredictable weather patterns, degraded soils, and water scarcity.
The field day offered a hands-on experience, with live demonstrations spanning a range of climate-resilient crops ;potato, beans, sweet potato, sunflower, sorghum, and cassava. One of the most striking demonstrations was a mechanized seed potato planting session.
Presiding over the event, Professor Kibe (Egerton University- Kenya Potatoe Sustainability Initiative- lead) underscored the importance of equipping farmers with technologies and knowledge that are not only climate-smart but also economically viable.
He said the success of the field day was made possible through collaborative efforts of Egerton.
During the event, farmers were shown how chisel plough moved through a herbicide-treated plot, implementing minimum tillage techniques. The method, is a cornerstone of conservation agriculture, that helps retain soil moisture, reduce erosion, and enhance carbon sequestration and all critical components of sustainable land management.
They were also introduced to a solar-powered irrigation system,an energy-efficient innovation offering a lifeline to farmers in arid regions struggling with water scarcity.
Experts also showcased rapid seed multiplication techniques, giving farmers tools to generate early seed for planting, thus shortening the time it takes to access quality planting material.
Egerton University with Farm to Market Alliance Partner Organizanition continued support has ensured that farmers not only access better technologies but also receive the training and market connections needed to improve their livelihoods.
Going forward, Egerton University and partners will go on expanding access to CSA innovations through continued field demonstrations and farmer trainings.
Egerton University with Farm to Market Alliance Partner Organizanition continued support has ensured that farmers not only access better technologies but also receive the training and market connections needed to improve their livelihoods.
Going forward, Egerton University and partners will go on expanding access to CSA innovations through continued field demonstrations and farmer trainings.
